This Tender Melt In Your Mouth Chicken Breast is truly a hit! It’s juicy, flavorful, and so easy to make. You’ll love how it practically hops off the plate!
I can’t get enough of how tender this chicken is! Pair it with some veggies or rice for a nice meal. Just a few simple steps and you’ll be enjoying this tasty dish in no time! 🍽️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless and skinless are preferred for tenderness. If you have chicken thighs, they work great too! Just adjust cooking time since they may take a little longer to cook through.
Buttermilk: This is essential for marinating as it tenderizes the meat. If you don’t have buttermilk, plain yogurt or even milk mixed with a bit of lemon juice can work. Just let it sit for a few minutes to sour!
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic adds a lovely flavor. If you’re short on time, garlic powder can be used, but fresh is always better for taste!
Seasonings: The salt, pepper, paprika, and thyme give the chicken great flavor. Don’t have paprika? Try smoked paprika or even a pinch of cayenne for a kick. Fresh herbs can be a nice touch as well!
Olive Oil or Butter: Both work well for cooking the chicken. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use a cooking spray or broth for a sauté!
How Do I Get Juicy Chicken Every Time?
The key to juicy chicken is all in the marinating and cooking process. Marinate the chicken for at least 2 hours, but overnight is best! It allows flavors to soak in and helps break down tough fibers, making the chicken tender.
- Keep an eye on the cooking temperature; medium heat is perfect for even cooking without drying it out.
- Don’t skip the resting step! This lets juices settle, ensuring the chicken stays moist.
- Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature hits 165°F (75°C), preventing overcooking.
Now you’re all set to make some tender, melt-in-your-mouth chicken! Enjoy!
Tender Melt In Your Mouth Chicken Breast
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup buttermilk (or plain yogurt as a substitute)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp dried thyme or Italian seasoning
- 2 tbsp olive oil or unsalted butter
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish, optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time and at least 2 hours for marinating (or overnight for best flavor). The cooking time is around 15 minutes, making the total time about 2 hours and 30 minutes, allowing for that perfect melt-in-your-mouth experience!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Marinate the Chicken:
Start by placing the chicken breasts in a dish or a zip-top bag. In a separate bowl, mix together the buttermilk, minced garlic, salt, pepper, paprika, and dried thyme. Pour this marinade over the chicken, making sure it’s fully coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight if you can—this helps the chicken become super tender and flavorful.
2. Prepare to Cook:
When you’re ready to cook, take the marinated chicken out of the fridge about 15 minutes beforehand to let it reach room temperature. This helps the chicken cook evenly.
3. Heat the Pan:
In a large skillet over medium heat, add the olive oil or butter. Allow it to warm up until it looks shiny and hot.
4. Cook the Chicken:
Take the chicken out of the marinade and shake off any extra buttermilk. Place the chicken breasts in the hot skillet. Cook them undisturbed for about 5-7 minutes, or until they are golden brown on one side.
5. Flip and Cover:
Now flip the chicken breasts over, reduce the heat to medium-low, and cover the skillet with a lid. Cook for another 6-8 minutes. You want the internal temperature to reach 165°F (75°C) to ensure it’s fully cooked.
6. Rest the Chicken:
Once cooked, carefully remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest on a plate for about 5 minutes. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, making the chicken even more tender.
7. Serve:
After resting, slice the chicken and garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired. Serve it with your favorite sides or salads for a delicious meal!
Enjoy this easy, juicy, and tender chicken breast that literally melts in your mouth!
FAQ for Tender Melt In Your Mouth Chicken Breast
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs will work wonderfully in this recipe. Just keep an eye on the cooking time, as thighs may take slightly longer to reach the desired internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
Is There a Substitute for Buttermilk?
Yes! If you don’t have buttermilk on hand, you can use plain yogurt mixed with an equal amount of milk. Another option is to add a tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar to a cup of milk and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes to sour before using.
How Do I Store Leftover Chicken?
Store any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can reheat it in the microwave or on the stovetop; just be careful not to overcook it to keep the chicken moist.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can marinate the chicken the night before and cook it the next day. This not only saves time but also allows the chicken to absorb even more flavor!
